Vice Admiral Michel Hofman becomes the new Chief of Defense (CHOD). That has just been decided by the Council of Ministers. He succeeds Marc Compernol, who will retire on July 10.
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Not surprisingly, the Wilmès government elects Vice Admiral Michel Hofman as the new CHOD (Chief of Defense). The French-speaking top soldier is currently the right-hand man of army boss Marc Compernol, who says goodbye on July 10, after 48 years in uniform. The choice for Hofman is therefore a choice for a certain continuity. And, after twice a Dutch-speaking Chief of Defense (Compernol and his predecessor Gerard Van Caelenberghe), another French-speaking – although Hofman is perfectly bilingual.
Hofman beat two other candidates. Claude Van de Voorde, the former head of cabinet of ex-Defense Minister Steven Vandeput (N-VA), who now heads the ADIV military intelligence service, and Jan Hennes, who heads HR at Defense.
Defense Minister Philippe Goffin (MR) explained the decision in parliament immediately after the cabinet meeting. He emphasized that the three candidates have ‘an impressive record of achievements’.
After this decision, it remains to be seen who will be appointed as vice-CHOD. The name of Major General Mark Thys is often mentioned for this. Thys heads the Transition Team, which also includes Hennes.
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